The International SPA Association (ISPA) Foundation continues to build upon its library of respected research in the industry with the release of the 2017 ISPA U.S. Spa Industry Study. PwC was commissioned by the ISPA Foundation to conduct the study.

“Our annual spa industry study has shown sustained growth in several key areas each of the past six years,” said ISPA President Lynne McNees. “The growth in the spa community has also led to a wealth of job opportunities for those seeking a fulfilling career path or transition.”

The annual study highlights the record-breaking revenue of 16.8 billion USD and all indicators point to continued growth. Nearly 33,000 vacant positions were available in the industry at the time of the study with 61 percent of spas actively trying to fill positions.

“Spa visits are now at an all-time high; over 184 million visitors walked through the doors and benefited from spa treatments in 2016,” said Colin McIlheney, Global Research Director for PwC. “The key metrics are all continuing their upward trend, highlighting the importance of the spa industry.”

While spas are looked at as a place to relax, reduce stress and invest in one’s health, technology is playing a part in enhancing the overall spa experience. Almost two in three spas offer the option to book treatments with ease online and 83 percent rely on social media to share promotions with consumers.

Spas are also making a difference in their communities and finding creative ways to give back. Nearly half, 47 percent, of spas held a promotion or event in partnership with a philanthropic organization in 2016.

The ISPA Foundation would like to thank its sponsors AccorHotels, essie, Red Door Spa and ResortSuite. The research will be highlighted at the 2017 ISPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, Oct. 16-18. Visit attendISPA.com to learn more about the event.